This letter, declined by the Equine Veterinary Journal, responds to MacKechnie-Guire et al.’s defence of their noseband pressure study. It clarifies key methodological and interpretive issues that remain unresolved and highlights why transparent discussion is vital to the integrity of equine welfare science.
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In academic publishing, critique and reply are essential to scientific progress. This letter—declined by the Equine Veterinary Journal—is published here to complete the public record. It clarifies key methodological issues in a study of noseband pressures and highlights the importance of open discourse for equine welfare policy.
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Unlike most reports quoting only veterinarians, this analysis comes from Dr James Cooling—a medical doctor, qualified bit-fitter, and rider. He explains why blue tongues in elite horses are not cosmetic, but clear evidence of pressure, pain, and compromised welfare.
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Not all opinions are equal, and not all research holds water. A simple saying helps illustrate why...
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Bit Blindness The term “bit blindness”, coined in 2020, emphasises that after its inception four...
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A critique of “The Role of the Equestrian Professional in Bridle and Bit Fit in the United...
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A critique of the Horses and the Science of Harmony film by Emeritus Professor Robert Cook, FRCVS,...
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Postgraduate students, representatives from the equine industry, teachers and riding instructors...
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The value of behavioural science was in the spotlight at British Equine Vets Association (BEVA)...
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Horse owners have helped researchers confirm tool use in horses. You may have seen viral videos...
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Horses are incredibly good at recognising human emotions in your voice and expressions, but did you know how to leverage that super power to strengthen your bond?
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When the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) released its recent whip consultation report, it claimed to have consulted the science. But it insists whipping doesn’t hurt horses and fails to recommend that the racing industry changes its approach.
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